27104, Winston Salem, North Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 27104, Winston Salem, North Carolina is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.25 percent of residents in 27104 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center with a distance of 1.86 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: 27104 – Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The health of a community hinges on many factors, but one of the most critical is access to healthcare. In ZIP code 27104, nestled within Winston-Salem, North Carolina, understanding the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities is paramount to evaluating its overall health score. This analysis delves into the transportation options available, painting a picture of how residents can connect with the care they need.

The primary mode of transportation for many residents in 27104 is the personal vehicle. This necessitates a keen understanding of drive times to various healthcare providers. The proximity to major thoroughfares like US-52 and Interstate 40 significantly impacts this. Residents living near these arteries often enjoy quicker access to larger medical centers. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can substantially lengthen travel times, impacting the ability to receive timely care, especially in emergencies.

For example, a resident needing to reach Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center, a major healthcare hub, might utilize US-52. Depending on the specific location within 27104 and traffic conditions, the drive could range from 10 to 25 minutes. Similarly, access to Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, another crucial facility, often involves navigating I-40. This drive could take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, again depending on traffic and the starting point within the zip code.

Beyond the highways, smaller roads like Silas Creek Parkway and Stratford Road play essential roles. These routes provide alternative paths, but they can also be subject to traffic delays. Considering these factors, the drive-time component of the health score requires a nuanced understanding of the local road network and its potential impact on healthcare access.

Public transportation offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. The Winston-Salem Transit Authority (WSTA) provides bus service within the city. Several routes serve 27104, connecting residents to medical facilities. However, the frequency of these routes and the travel times to reach hospitals and clinics are crucial considerations.

Specific routes, such as Route 11, may offer direct access to some healthcare locations. However, the reliance on scheduled stops and potential for transfers can extend travel times considerably. The WSTA strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the public transit system. This feature is a vital component of inclusive healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another transportation option. These services offer on-demand access to healthcare facilities, potentially reducing wait times compared to public transportation. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited financial resources. The availability of these services within 27104 and their responsiveness during peak demand periods are also important factors.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs, provide a specialized solution. Companies like Senior Services and others offer transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to specific needs, such as wheelchair accessibility or assistance with boarding and disembarking. The availability and affordability of these services are crucial for ensuring healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

Evaluating the overall health score of 27104 requires a comprehensive assessment of these transportation options. The accessibility of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices, is a key determinant. The drive times, public transit efficiency, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services all contribute to the overall picture.

The availability of primary care physicians within the zip code is also a critical factor. Proximity to these providers can significantly reduce the need for longer journeys to access basic medical services. The presence of urgent care centers and walk-in clinics further enhances healthcare access, providing convenient options for non-emergency medical needs.

For individuals considering moving to Winston-Salem, understanding the healthcare landscape in 27104 is essential. The ease of transportation to medical facilities should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. Researching the availability of healthcare providers, the efficiency of public transportation, and the cost of ride-sharing services can help prospective residents make informed choices.

The health score of 27104 is not static. It is influenced by ongoing developments in transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, and community initiatives. Improvements in public transit, the expansion of healthcare facilities, and the introduction of innovative transportation solutions can all positively impact the health score.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a community where all residents have equitable access to healthcare. This requires a multi-faceted approach, addressing transportation barriers, promoting affordable healthcare options, and fostering a supportive environment for individuals seeking medical care. The health score of 27104 reflects the community's commitment to achieving this goal, highlighting both its strengths and areas for improvement.